23 October 2012

You know you are in Charleston when....

Blenheim Ginger Ale, Piggly Wiggly, Charleston, S.C.
Piggly Wiggly is the only place I can be guaranteed to find Blenheim Ginger Ale and if I'm not on foot I pick up a six pack. I went by their bottling plant in Hamer, S.C. years ago and by the look of their website they have upscaled their operation a bit since I was there. They even have an up to date blog now but the place I like to go for Blenheim info is the ever loyal Blenheim Shrine site:
Blenheim ginger ale has attained legendary status, partly because it is hard to find, and partly because of its spicy kick that nearly causes out-of-body experiences. Oh sure, they have a 'not as hot' level, but my friends, if you aren't used to anything spicy, even Blenny's '#5' could make your head feel like it's in a toaster oven! The "OLD #3 HOT" is a hot ginger ale that's NOT for the weak of heart. Then again, it might jump start a heart or two. (Note: It helps not to breathe in before you get it in your mouth.)
There are three different heat levels with the red cap being the spiciest Old #3.  I think you should try it. Here are some descriptions:
  • "...the hot gingerale will knock your socks off!"
  • "The resultant rush of ginger into the nasal membranes is intense."
  • "It was the most intense sneeze I've ever had. I thought my brains shot out of my nose."
  • "...sort of like drinking extremely tasty sandpaper"
  • "Like a slap in the face from a spurned lover"
  • "...has to be the hottest drink on the planet"
  • "...when they say hot, they mean it"
  • "I can’t drink it straight. I don’t know anyone who can"
  • "...on your first swig your head flew back"
  • "...don't get any up your nose, or else"
  • "The #3 Hot Ginger Ale does bite back, yes sir"
  • "Considering the heat of the normal, the hot must be hotter than the hinges of hell."
  • "...so hot and spicy that you will gag, choke and cough at first, but wow it is tasty"
  • "...a whiff would revive a person midfaint"
  • "Wowee-wow-wow was this stuff intense!"
 

6 comments:

Lowandslow said...

Is it marketed anywhere besides SC or the Southeast? I'll have to look for it the next time I'm at our quirky little market.

S

Les said...

It makes a delicious bourbon and ginger, and also cuts the sweetness of Southern Comfort delightfully.

Marcheline said...

Have you ever tasted Vernors? It used to be sold only in the south, not sure if it's still in circulation. Definitely could be described in similar fashion, and I love it!

Charlestonjoan said...

I think the host of the Blenheim Shrine site lists all the places that sell it. It is definitely a quirky choice!

Charlestonjoan said...

Sounds good. I think I want to try making some of the cocktails.

Charlestonjoan said...

No, that is a new one. Haven't seen it.